Before a pilot sets out on a flight they plot the coordinates of their journey. They consider a number of factors including the weather, other flight conditions, estimated time of arrival, etc. They know where they are going and how they are going to get there. For most of the journey, given continued favourable weather conditions, pilots are able to press a single button and enter auto-pilot. This allows the vessel to fly itself essentially while they just supervise to ensure all systems are working appropriately. Take off and landing are a hands on affair...